Some wonder if Alzheimer’s patients really live out their lives at home and, also, whether it’s a good idea. I believe strongly that it is because structure and familiarity are important in the life of someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Also it’s good to keep your loved one with Alzheimer’s involved in day-to-day life. The easiest place to do that is at home.
We’ve had many, many clients with a cognitive deficit. The overwhelming majority of them have stayed in their home until the day they died. At the end we’ve brought in hospice services to help them. Many clients are walking around up to a day or two before they pass away.
My experience is that someone with Alzheimer’s does better staying at home because they are familiar with the routine and the space. Alzheimer’s patients don’t do well with change and have reduced ability to adapt to a completely foreign environment.
They have a greater level of independence because their home is in their long term memory. It’s not something they have to actively figure out, which comes into the short term memory.
If they get good homecare that includes physical activity, they have an advantage. Activities can be as simple as helping with the weeding in the garden. At least they are doing something, using energy and feeling involved. We keep our clients up and moving. We don’t like to see them sleeping during the day because this can lead to sleepless nights which can wear out a family caregiver.
If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s, please look into homecare options so they can live their life to the fullest in their own home. And if you’re in the Greater Philadelphia Area, give us a call at 610-254-9440.
